SANAE TAKAICHI PROJECTED TO WIN SNAP ELECTION IN JAPAN BY A WIDE MARGIN, EXIT POLLS INDICATE. (PHOTO).

 Sanae Takaichi projected to win snap election in Japan by a wide margin, exit polls indicate

Japan’s conservative Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has secured a landslide victory in a high-stakes snap election, according to exit polls. Takaichi, who became leader of the governing Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in October, is projected to win between 274 and 326 of the 465 seats in the lower house. Her party surpassed the 233-seat threshold needed for a majority by Sunday evening local time, with the LDP and its coalition partner Ishin expected to capture a combined 302-366 seats amid historically cold winter voter turnout.

The far-right Sanseito party, which campaigned on a “Japanese First” platform, may increase its representation to 14 seats, falling short of its 30-seat goal. Takaichi’s decision to call a snap election surprised both her party and the opposition, but her gamble, aided by enthusiasm from younger voters dubbed “Sanamania,” has paid off. Japan’s first female prime minister campaigned on bolstering defense capabilities and increasing the country’s influence internationally, addressing security threats from China and North Korea as U.S. attention shifts elsewhere. Takaichi also maintains a notably strong relationship with former President Donald Trump, who publicly endorsed her and plans to meet her at the White House in March. Despite mixed reactions to her more assertive stance toward China, which led to trade restrictions and travel warnings, Takaichi’s blend of bold policy positions, distinctive style, and social media presence has resonated with voters, particularly younger constituents, helping her secure a commanding victory.